All change in Kerry as Síofra O'Shea eyes further silverware

It's all change in the Kerry camp.

For the first time in 31 years, they begin the year as All-Ireland champions, but they will defend their crown, and look to go one better in the league following last year’s final disappointment against Armagh, without some familiar faces.

Declan Quill and Darragh Long stepped away as joint-managers weeks after guiding the Kingdom to the Brendan Martin Cup.

Mark Bourke is the man tasked with plotting further success with the Kingdom, but he must do so without the services of decorated forward Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh, who bows out after 17 seasons in the green and gold.

The 32-year-old was named footballer of the year in 2023 and won five All-Star awards, with her career culminating in All-Ireland glory last August.

Former team captain Síofra O’Shea, who recovered from a cruciate injury to return for the business end of last year’s memorable campaign says the Corca Dhuibhne woman leaves a lasting legacy in the game.

"I looked up to her from when I was younger and to get to play alongside her was special for the last number of years," she told RTÉ Sport.

"She was a great role model for us, with a career that has been absolutely phenomenal. It's a big change in Kerry ladies football.

"We were happy for her, but we'll miss her around the place."

O’Shea can look forward to the campaign fully fit and raring to go, a far cry from where she found herself 12 months previous.

A week out from 2023 All-Ireland semi-final against Mayo, O’Shea’s season came to a shuddering halt when she ruptured her cruciate ligament, a little over a year after the same injury in her other knee.

The Southern Gaels clubwoman was reduced to the role as spectator before returning to action for championship.

"To see the girls go